What is yerba mate?
Mate, also known as yerba mate, is a traditional drink in Latin and South America. Like black or green tea, it has caffeine. Drinking mate isn’t linked to health problems in most adults. Some studies suggest the tea may have helpful effects on cholesterol, weight loss, the heart, swelling called inflammation and cancer risk. But more research is needed. Mate provides an energy boost similar to coffee, but with less caffeine and more nutrients.
Mate, or yerba for short, is a traditional South American brew. First, let’s take a look at the evidence-based mental and physical health benefits. One cup of mate tea contains around 80 milligrams of caffeine, comparable to a cup of coffee. Many people drink mate say it gives them an energy boost without the nervousness sometimes with coffee.
Some people believe yerba decreases cholesterol, protects the liver, stimulates the brain, and protects the heart, among benefits. Mate is bitter, many consider it an acquired taste. Both the preparation and the drinking process are considered to be ceremonial.
What does yerba mate do to your body?
Yerba mate is a traditional South American tea. It provides an energy boost similar to coffee, but with less caffeine and more nutrients. Mate offers several health benefits. It contains compounds that may kill colon cancer cells. It also has antioxidants, may boost mental function, and could aid weight loss.
However, mate may increase risk of some cancers if consumed at high temperatures. It also has stimulant effects so some people with heart disease or arrhythmias should use caution.
Yerba mate provides:
- Vitamins
- Minerals
- Other beneficial nutrients
It contains:
- Caffeine to stimulate alertness
- Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
What is healthier coffee or yerba mate?
Yerba mate caffeine differs from coffee. Coffee drinkers tend to crash after hours. Mate drinkers feel stimulated yet soothed. This is due to theobromine. Mate provides mental alertness coffee or tea does not.
When it comes to health, is yerba mate better than coffee? Mate has earthy flavor and caffeine. It also has antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Many believe yerba mate boosts energy gently and longer than coffee.
| Drink | Caffeine (mg) |
|---|---|
| Mate cup | About 85 |
| Coffee cup | About 95 |
Mate has more caffeine than black tea, but less than coffee.
Yerba mate is healthier than coffee!
We explore the two beverages, coffee and yerba mate. Studies show yerba mate is alkaline, above pH 7. Some users complain of acidity and heartburn. A question arises: Which drink is superior and healthier?
Pros and cons of yerba mate
Yerba mate is a traditional South American drink made from the dried leaves of the holly plant Ilex paraguariensis. It contains caffeine, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Some research shows yerba mate may have health benefits, including increased energy, enhanced brain function, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, frequent consumption of large amounts, especially when very hot, may increase risk of certain cancers.
Yerba mate has been consumed in South America for centuries and was called “the drink of the gods” by indigenous people. Today, people often drink yerba mate socially in groups. They prepare mate tea by steeping dried leaves in hot water and drinking it through a metal straw. This brewing ritual is considered ceremonial.
Research shows:
- Antioxidants that protect cells
- Anti-inflammatories that reduce swelling and pain
- Compounds that may enhance heart health
However, a few studies also associate heavy yerba mate consumption, especially at very high temperatures, with increased cancer risk. This link appears strongest for cancers of the throat, esophagus, and mouth. More research is still needed regarding yerba mate’s impact on cancer development.
Yerba mate contains:
- Caffeine
- Theobromine
- 15 amino acids
The caffeine and theobromine account for its stimulating effects and slightly bitter flavor. A cup of yerba mate provides around 80 milligrams of caffeine for comparison, a cup of coffee contains approximately 95 to 200 milligrams of caffeine.